EXPLANATION OF PLATE 23 



The ovoid vase shown in plate 23 is 11 inches high by Ql inches in diameter at 

 its -ft-idest part. It is of very fine pottery, with decorations in red, black, and reddish 

 j'ellow on a background of light yellow. The outer surface is divided by double 

 black lines into three zones. The uppermost and narrowest -zone contains, between a 

 broad red band above and two narrow black bands below, a row of 10 gh'phs surrounding 

 the edge of the vase. The middle zone, the broadest, contains upon one side (un- 

 fortunately the decoration upon the other side has been almost obliterated by time 

 or wear) a human figure, in a crouching position, the right hand extended, the left 

 resting upon the ground. The face is in profile, and around the left eye is seen the 

 ornament usually associated with the representation of a god. This may be intended 

 to represent Schellhas's God D of the Codices, known as the Roman-nosed God, 

 probably Itzamna, as tliis peculiar eye ornament is often associated with him. The 

 headdress is exceedingly elaborate, projecting far in front of and behind the head, 

 and is decorated with plumes of feathers. The whole figui-e strongly suggests the 

 bas-relief on the side of the door of the altar at Palenque, which is undoubtedly a 

 representation of the god Itzanma. The cmious eye ornaments, the construction of 

 the elaborate headdress, the contour of the face, and the platted objects hanging 

 down in front of and belaind the chest, from the neck, are similar in both. The 

 lowest zone is decorated with vases having handles at the sides, nan'ow necks, and 

 flaring rims from wliich project flame-like tongues; on the outer sm-face of each is 

 depicted an "Ahau" sign. The vases alternate with curious objects which might 

 represent bales of merchandise; the whole, indeed, closely resembles the tribute 

 count of some Aztec city. 



